Chick-Fil-A: Is Free Enterprise Still Free?

I do not find it surprising that certain political leaders in our nation easily lash out in threatening fashion to those running a free enterprise. Why am I not surprised? In the "Uncle Sam" economy that permeates our nation, the violation of contracts and property rights has become increasingly prevalent.

In that vein, we should not be surprised when leaders of certain cities and towns spew forth intimidating statements to those running a free enterprise. I refer specifically to recent statements delivered by the mayors of Boston, Chicago, and San Franciso and directed at the president of Chick-fil-A, Dan Cathy.

Regardless of what one may think about controversial topics of the day, including same-sex marriage, last I checked individuals in our nation not only had the right to free speech but then also the constitutional rights to free enterprise.

Mayors Tom "Mumbles" Menino in Boston, Rahm Emanuel in Chicago, and Edwin Lee in San Francisco are entitled to speak their mind as they choose but as leaders of these cities they may care to think twice prior to voicing their opposition to an enterprise such as Chick-fil-A establishing a presence in their city. If people in Boston, Chicago, and San Francisco care to exercise their right to assemble and protest Chick-fil-A, they should feel free to do so and knock themselves out in the process. Clearly, Dan Cathy has the right to free enterprise while also not violating the basic rights and freedoms of his employees.

See, this thing called freedom is supposed to be what makes our country truly special. When freedoms are violated, we all lose. Menino, Emanuel, and Lee may care to reacquaint themselves with the principle of freedom. When embraced and mixed with the virtues of truth, transparency, integrity, and respect, America and all Americans win.

So, "Mumbles", what is it going to be? You want a healthy does of freedom and a side of the barbecue or honey mustard with that? Maybe a little extra seasoning on those large fries as well?

I have no affiliation or business interest with any entity referenced in this commentary. The opinions expressed are my own. I am a proponent of real transparency within our markets so that investor confidence and investor protection can be achieved.